Cross the great viaduct to historic Knaresborough

Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

Mysterious caves, a medieval castle and a magical spring that turns objects to stone are just a few reasons to visit this gorgeous riverside town.

Dramatically set into a rocky gorge, the medieval town of Knaresborough is a maze of cobbled paths and stone staircases weaving up from the river. The best way to view it is from the train as you arrive across the handsome stone viaduct.

Walk along the picturesque riverside or row a boat out under the viaduct’s soaring arches. Wind your way through narrow lanes to Knaresborough Castle and you can visit the old courthouse, a hermit’s cave, rock shrine and old market square.

Across the river is a famous thermal spring with such high mineral levels that its dripping waters literally turn dangling objects to stone. Everything from teddy bears to John Wayne’s hat has been petrified here. Here too is a spooky cave, once home to an eccentric prophetess.

Knaresborough is in the middle of Northern England, a 10-minute train ride from Harrogate.